With the rise of social media and increased new generation of TCM practitioners, the industry has become more open, transparent, and relatable. Today’s TCM blends time-tested wisdom with modern understanding which supported by growing scientific proof that backs what our ancestors have practised for centuries.
Unlike in the past, when many simply “followed what the elders said” without knowing why, new mums today are more informed and intentional about their confinement journey. They want to know what goes into their bodies, how each herb/soup or treatment supports recovery, and how TCM can help them regain strength, balance, and confidence after childbirth.
The Role of TCM in Confinement
1. Improve Uterus Healing and Prevent Inflammation
After giving birth, one of the main areas that requires your attention is your uterus.
TCM helps accelerate uterine recovery, prevent inflammation, and support the uterus in returning to its original size.
It also promotes the complete clearing of lochia and blood stasis, ensuring your body heals as efficiently as possible.
2. Get Back to Your Pre-Pregnancy Shape Faster
Your body undergoes major transformations during pregnancy to accommodate your growing baby.
TCM offers treatments that aid in postpartum recovery such as strengthening abdominal muscles, restoring pelvic alignment, promoting healthy weight loss, and addressing diastasis recti.
3. Boost Lactation and Milk Supply
It is emotional draining if you are struggling with milk flow or supply.
TCM treatments help promote smooth milk flow, prevent breast engorgement, and support a more comfortable and fulfilling breastfeeding experience.
4. Restore Vitality and Immunity
It’s common to feel tired and weak after childbirth due to the loss of Qi and blood.
This can lower your immunity, making you more prone to infections.
With tailored TCM care, your energy and immune system can be replenished which helping you care for your baby without feeling constantly drained.
5. Relieve Muscle and Joint Pain
The depletion of Qi and blood after childbirth can leave your body undernourished.
Together with constant carrying, breastfeeding, and lack of rest, many new mums experience muscle and joint pain.
TCM treatments help strengthen muscles and joints, improve circulation, and ease discomfort.
6. Improve Skin and Hair Health
Hair loss, dry skin, and loss of elasticity are common after childbirth.
Chinese herbs such as He Shou Wu and Du Zhong are known to promote healthy hair growth, nourish the skin, and enhance overall vitality that can help you look and feel rejuvenated.
7. Enhance Memory and Mental Clarity
Forgetfulness and mental fog can make postpartum life more challenging.
TCM can help improve memory and cognitive function, allowing you to stay focused and alert while caring for your newborn.
8. Support Long-Term Health
Postpartum recovery isn’t just about short-term healing instead it sets the foundation for your long-term health.
Integrating TCM into your confinement journey not only helps you recover from childbirth but also builds long lasting wellness for motherhood and beyond.
TCM Treatments for Postpartum Recovery
1. Chinese Herbal Medicine, Soups & Teas
TCM aren’t limited to just pills or decoctions, they also come in the form of nourishing soups and teas that are easier to consume during confinement.
These are customised to address postpartum issues such as hormonal imbalance, poor lactation, blood and Qi deficiency, low energy, and night sweating. Herbal confinement soups and teas can help replenish blood, restore energy, and strengthen your overall recovery.
2. Acupuncture
By inserting fine needles into specific acupoints, acupuncture improves circulation, replenishes energy, reduces pain, strengthens joints, enhances sleep, and supports skin and hair health.
3. Moxibustion
Using the warmth of burning moxa (Ai Ye) helps improve circulation, dispel wind and cold, restore energy, and enhance healing.
4. Postpartum Massage and Body Realignment Therapy
Gentle techniques help reduce postpartum aches, realign pelvic bones, improve lymphatic drainage, and strengthen abdominal and pelvic floor muscles.
Correcting body alignment promotes better postpartum recovery, improves balance, and supports uterine healing.
Postpartum recovery is more than just resting and drinking soup. It’s about having the right soups, the right treatments, and the right care for your body. With proper TCM guidance, your confinement journey can help you recover faster and better, regain strength, and lay the foundation for lasting wellness.